Far Side of the World

Jimmy Buffett's 33rd record-his first for his own Mailboat Records-finds the world's most famous beach bum in an uncharacteristically reflective mood. While he hasn't completely lost interest in beer, burgers, and string bikinis, Buffett no longer seems intent on transporting fans to some tropical Shangri-la. Buffett does take listeners on a trip to the "Far Side of the World," but insists that you bring your baggage with you-and learn to love it. Buffett skillfully weaves themes of self-acceptance, self-abnegation, and fears for the future into unerringly witty and graphic observations, but his words lack much of their usual frivolity and froth. Buffett is a man at a crossroads, where he's created his most evocative and daring music in years.